Although the 12-step approach to recovery from alcoholism and addiction can be beneficial for some people, not everyone is comfortable with some of the more spiritual aspects of the programs
The famous 12-step approach to recovery from alcoholism was pioneered by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in the 1930s. Since that time, numerous similar 12-step programs have been established to help people recover from other addictions, such as cocaine or heroin. Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Cocaine Anonymous (CA) are two such programs.
12-step recovery programs generally emphasize spirituality and fellowship as major planks in long-term recovery, along with ongoing efforts to improve one’s character and ability to let go of resentments and negativity. Clay and Justin are members of a 12-step program. They attended the Issues of Substance 2017 conference in Calgary.
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Issues of Substance 2017: Addiction Matters
Issues of Substance (IOS) is Canada’s only national conference that brings together addiction workers, healthcare professionals, researchers, policy makers and knowledge brokers from across the country. The premier learning event provides an unparalleled opportunity to share new developments and best practices, and to get practical training related to prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery. IOS is also a forum for showcasing new research and knowledge mobilization efforts in the addiction field. The theme for IOS 2017, held November 13-15, 2017 in Calgary (Alberta), was “Addiction Matters.” The annual conference is hosted by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA).
About CCSA
The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction was created by Parliament to provide national leadership to address substance use in Canada. A trusted counsel, CCSA provides national guidance to decision makers by harnessing the power of research, curating knowledge and bringing together diverse perspectives.
CCSA Vision: a healthier Canadian society where evidence transforms approaches to substance use.
CCSA Mission: to address issues of substance use in Canada by providing national leadership and harnessing the power of evidence to generate coordinated action.
Together with its partners, CCSA is working to improve the health and safety of Canadians: “We will achieve this goal by nurturing a knowledge exchange environment where research guides policy and evidence-informed actions enhance effectiveness in the field.”
